NEW CODE FOR DRINKS PROMOTIONS

The Westminster Arms

Today the Government revealed a new mandatory code for drinks promotions.

The final conditions announced today will form the new mandatory alcohol code. The code is aimed at irresponsible promotions in pubs, clubs and off licences that could lead to alcohol related crime and disorder.

Amongst the conditions for alcohol retailers are a ban on irresponsible promotions including “all you can drink for £10″ deals plus a compulsory requirement to check under 18s for ID.

Breaches of the code could result in a range of sanctions including a review of their licence or on summary conviction a maximum £20,000 fine and/or six months imprisonment.

The code will be introduced in two stages to give retailers time to prepare. The first three will come into effect on 6 April 2010 and the fourth and fifth from 1st October 2010.

Dentist's Chair Drinking - Stags do's will never be the same again!

The conditions will be applied to all alcohol retailers to ensure consistent good practice and crack down on problem premises where irresponsible drinking could put individuals at risk and lead to crime and anti-social behaviour.

The proposed conditions are:

1. Banning irresponsible promotions such as “all you can drink for £10″ offers, women drink free deals and speed drinking competitions. These promotions are seen to encourage people to drink quickly or irresponsibly and could lead to crime and disorder.

2. Banning “dentist chairs” where drink is poured directly into the mouths of customers making it impossible for them to control the amount they are drinking.

3. Ensuring free tap water is available for customers – allowing people to space out their drinks and reduce the risks of becoming dangerously drunk.

4. Ensuring all those who sell alcohol have an age verification policy in place requiring them to check ID of anyone who looks under 18 to prevent underage drinking which can lead to anti-social behaviour and put young people at risk of harm.

5. Ensuring that all on trade premises make available small measures of beers, wine and spirits to customers so customers have the choice between a single or double measure of spirits and a large or small glass of wine.

Breaches of the code could result in a range of sanctions including a review of their licence or on summary conviction a maximum £20,000 fine and/or six months imprisonment.

The proposed conditions of the code will now go before Parliament for approval.